Royal International Air Tattoo 2014 - RAF Fairford

Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) is considered by many enthusiasts to be the supreme military airshow in the world. The word “tattoo” is used traditionally in the military to mean “coming together”. This year’s RIAT lived up to it’s name by attracting the participation of more than 30 air arms from around the world. The main highlight of the show was the celebration of the 50th air display season for the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, The Red Arrows. A special “pits day” was organized on the Friday before the weekend show to commemorate this special occasion. Another notable highlight was to be the international debut by the Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II. Unfortunately an engine problem cancelled this much anticipated participation. Nevertheless, the airshow had other stars such as the Su-22 Fitters from the Polish Air Force, A-7 Corsair of the Hellenic Air Force and the numerous aerobatic teams from around Europe. Special thanks to the Italian and Swiss Air Force for sending a large contingent to take part in this air show. The gallery below shows the participating aircraft arriving at RAF Fairford on Wednesday and Thursday as well as the half day special airshow to commemorate Red Arrows’ 50th display season and the full day airshow on Saturday.